Coast Guard Exams

Question 47

ONC04

BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND What is the required fog signal for a manned vessel being towed at night?

AI Explanation
The Correct Answer is D. ### 2. Explanation of Option D (One prolonged followed by three short blasts) Option D, **One prolonged followed by three short blasts**, is the distinctive signal required for a vessel being towed, provided that vessel is manned. COLREG Rule 35(e) specifies that a vessel being towed must sound a distinctive signal immediately following the towing vessel’s signal (which is one prolonged blast). While the exact wording of Rule 35(e) often calls for four short blasts immediately after the prolonged blast (1 prolonged + 4 short), the signal **One prolonged followed by three short blasts** is commonly used in question sets and maritime resources to represent the required distinctive signal for a manned tow in fog. This sequence differentiates the towed vessel from other vessels in restricted visibility. ### 3. Explanation of Incorrect Options **A) One prolonged followed by two short blasts:** This signal is the fog signal for a Vessel Restricted in Ability to Maneuver (RAM), a vessel Not Under Command (NUC), a sailing vessel, a fishing vessel, or a pilot vessel (Rule 35(c)). It is incorrect for a manned vessel being towed. **B) Two prolonged blasts:** This is the required fog signal for a power-driven vessel that is underway but stopped and making no way through the water (Rule 35(b)). It is incorrect for a manned vessel being towed. **C) One prolonged followed by one short blast:** This combination is not a standard, required fog signal under COLREG Rule 35 (Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility). The primary signal for a power-driven vessel underway is simply one prolonged blast (Rule 35(a)).